Toulon advanced to the Top 14 semi-finals after beating Racing Metro 17-13 in a play-off on Saturday.

Racing were in command for the first 40 minutes, enjoying a 13-0 lead thanks in part to the boot of Springbok Frans Steyn.

It was during this period where Toulon flyhalf Jonny Wilkinson missed three attempts at goal. Racing were dominating in general play, while Toulon were struggling to create scoring opportunities.

Nevertheless, Toulon managed to edge their way into the contest bit by bit.

Wilkinson goaled a penalty before half-time, but an early miss in the second stanza saw the kicking duties falling to former Wallabies centre Matt Giteau. Giteau goaled two penalties, and a try by Steffon Armitage earned Toulon the lead for the first time in the game.

Despite this fightback by Toulon, Racing still had their chances to win the game. They would miss three shots at goal in the second half, two from relatively simple range, and would come to rue these misses as Toulon finished strongly.

Giteau eventually had the final say with a further penalty. Toulon will play Clermont in next week’s semi-final while Toulouse will host Castres in the other knockout game.